The watermelon is thought to have orginiated in South Africa. Usually, only the red flesh is eaten but the greenish-white rind is also edible and commonly used as a vegetable in Chinese cooking. (Read more about watermelon on Wikipedia.)

Watermelons are a great source of vitamins A and C and contain high amounts of the antioxidant lycopene. Lycopene has been linked to lowering incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and macular degeneration. (See more watermelon nutrition facts on Self.com.)

Ripe melons should be stored in the refrigerator. Unripe melons can be kept in a cool dark space until properly ripened. Cut melons should be wrapped tightly in plastic. Leave the seeds inside a cut melon until you're ready to eat it to help keep the moisture in the fruit.